1st Edition

Dig It! An Earth and Space Science Unit for High-Ability Learners in Grade 3

    154 Pages
    by Prufrock Press

    Dig It!, a third-grade Earth and space science unit, encourages students to investigate humanity's effects on the environment and the importance of conserving natural resources. The unit builds upon students' prior knowledge and the overarching concept of change by providing opportunities to relate local examples of environmental pollution and conservation with hands-on scientific experiments and demonstrations.

    Dig It! was developed by the Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary to offer advanced curriculum supported by years of research. The Center's materials have received national recognition from the United States Department of Education and the National Association for Gifted Children, and they are widely used both nationally and internationally.

    Each of the books in this series offers curriculum that focuses on advanced content and higher level processes. The science units contain simulations of real-world problems, and students experience the work of real science by using data-handling skills, analyzing information, and evaluating results. The mathematics units provide sophisticated ideas and concepts, challenging extensions, higher order thinking skills, and opportunities for student exploration based on interest. These materials are a must for any teacher seeking to challenge and engage learners and increase achievement.

    Grade 3

    Part I: Unit Overview Introduction to the Clarion Units Teacher’s Guide to Content Unit Glossary Teaching Resources Part II: Lesson Plans Lesson Plans Overview of Lessons Preassessment: Directions for the Teacher Lesson 1: What Is a Scientist? Lesson 2: What Is Change? Lesson 3: What Scientists Do Lesson 4: Preservation Park Lesson 5: Natural Resources, Part I Lesson 6: Natural Resources, Part II Lesson 7: Renewable Energy Resources Lesson 8: What Is Soil, Anyway? Lesson 9: Soil, Water, and Plants Lesson 10: Soil Erosion Lesson 11: Land Pollution: Garbage! Lesson 12: Oil Spill! Lesson 13: Planning Preservation Park Lesson 14: Preservation Park Planning Committee Lesson 15: Wrap It Up! Postassessment Directions for the Teacher Appendix A: Concept Paper on Change Appendix B: Teaching Models Appendix C: Materials List References Next Generation Science Standards Alignment

    Biography

    The Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary, a research and development center, was established in 1988 under the direction of Dr. Joyce VanTassel-Baska. The center provides services to educators, policy makers, graduate students, researchers, parents, and students in support of the needs of gifted and talented individuals. Located in Williamsburg, VA, the center has established a national reputation for excellence in research, curriculum development, and service. Several major grants, including funding from the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Act, have provided significant support for the work of the Center.